Finding Inspiration Series: Aromatherapy

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Finding Inspiration Series: Aromatherapy

My 'Finding Inspiration' series was written out of a need that comes up in my

practice, most often in Spring and Fall. I feel we all need a bit of

enlightenment now and then to help us move forward. Finding motivation through

inspiration can be the spark which sets you on your way!

Nature's Gifts

Spring is here. What better time to take advantage of the power of our sense of

smell!

We can find great inspiration through the power of our olfactory senses.

Spring

time is the season of renewal, where flowers blossom, all green things grow and

people feel a renewal of energy within themselves. People even begin to wear

lighter colored clothing to " match " the environment around them. Seek your

inspiration in the scent of fresh flowers filling the air, as well as the bloom

of green herbs. Take advantage of these natural riches.

Utilize the Essence of Aromatherapy

Once you understand the purpose of why essential oils exist, you will want them

in your life forever. They represent life itself, the source of all healing. My

wish is that you will share them with a friend, and let them experience some of

your oils.

Essential Oils work on several different levels. They affect most people

through

the sense of smell. The sense of smell is the most complexed and the sensitive

of the five senses.

Once the Olfactory receptors identify an aroma, nerve cells relay this

information directly to the Limbic system of the brain. Here, aromas can

trigger

memories and influence behavior. Additionally, the Limbic system works in

conjunction with the pituitary gland and the Hypothalamus region of the brain to

regulate the hormonal activities thus triggering the production of hormones that

govern appetite, body temperature, insulin production, overall metabolism,

stress levels, sex drive, and conscious thought and reactions. The Limbic system

also influences immunity. Essential oils can have a positive affect on all these

functions.

Essential oils work through the skin as well. They can stimulate surface

skin

cells, calm inflamed or irritated skin, release muscle spasms, soothe sore

muscles and relieve muscle tension.

Essential oils are used in a variety of ways.

* You can inhale them directly from the bottle.

* You can use them for skin care, hair care, and body care, as well as, for many

beauty purposes.

* Personal hygiene, aromatherapy baths, foot baths.

* Giving and receiving aromatherapy massages.

* Inhaling aromatherapy oil blends to relieve congestion, clear your head and

make breathing easier.

* You can also make wonderful fragrances with essential oils.

* Aromatherapy can prevent or ease an assortment of ailments. Essential oils

boost the immune system.

* You can treat aches, pains, injuries, with essential oils.

* Aromatherapy can help reduce stress, lift depression, restore emotional

well-being.

* You can disperse essential oils through the air in your home or office

to

increase productivity or alter moods.

Pacholyk. MS, L.Ac.

http://www.peacefulmind.com/aromatherapy.htm

Therapies for healing

mind, body, spirit